Eyelid primer: do you need it? Eyelid primer - what is it and what is it for? Eyelid primer - what is it

Greetings, dear readers!

We, as representatives of the fair sex, actively use decorative cosmetics. Such products do not always turn out to be quality, especially for the cheap price segment.

Sometimes it so happens that after setting a morning marafet, in the first 2 hours we look like world-class stars, and after the specified time, not a trace remains of the former beauty.

It is in order to combat such consequences that various cosmetic brands have begun to produce makeup bases. Since in previous articles I have already talked about, so now we will focus on the base for the eyelids. The eyeshadow primer is a must-have for the modern generation of girls and women.

Next, I will tell you more about how the product looks like, how it should be selected and applied, and you will also learn about its properties and functions, and even about alternative options. If you are still new to using eyeshadow, then with a base make-up is much easier.

For ease of understanding, throughout the article I will use 3 titles of the same product, because you can find various names of it on sale:

  1. base;
  2. primer;
  3. the foundation.

This cosmetic product fulfills two important function, which usually become a priority when buying this product:

  • prolongs the durability of eye makeup;
  • enhances the brightness of the eyeshadow pigment.

I think everyone who uses shadows wants them to last as long as possible, and the base really does it with a bang. As a big lover of eye make-up and the owner of oily skin of the eyelids, I always had to correct the shadows, as they were constantly hammered into the crease of the eyelid.

That is why, in fact, I started looking for a solution to this problem. And the eyelid primer turned out to be real for me at one time discovery and salvation... Now I very rarely leave the house without it, because even without applying shadows, the eyelids look very well-groomed, as if I just washed my face.


To choose a primer for yourself under the shadow, you need to pay attention to its consistency:

  1. liquid- usually translucent, suitable for young skin, may contain caring components, does not dry the delicate skin of the eyelids, and at the same time does not grease it;
  2. gel- ideal for oily skin of the eyelids, but at the same time it can be slightly dry, it is best used in the summer;
  3. creamy- usually contains body pigment, therefore, masks small imperfections, such as age spots, freckles, redness.

Very often you can find foundations under the shade, produced in round jars, small tubes or similar to lip gloss... Having tried many primers, I came to the conclusion that it is the last option with a brush that is best applied; with this use, the skin of the eyelids is not subjected to stretching at all.

An overview of the positive properties of an eyelid primer

In my humble opinion, the eyelid base will come in handy for any girl, no matter how old she is. Why do I think so? Because the eyelid primer has mass advantages:

  • If you use one eyeliner or mascara, then the base will perfectly smooth the skin of the eyelids, which is most important - they will not shine, especially in hot weather;
  • The base will make even the cheapest and low-quality shadows much brighter and more intense, they will stop crumbling, they will be shaded much easier;
  • A good foundation will help make your look look fresher and more rested as if you were using;
  • A high-quality base can extend the durability of the shadows until the evening, the makeup itself will look as if you just applied it;
  • The foundation can even help smooth out wrinkles on the eyelids, smoothing the skin well, making it more uniform, and therefore the shadows will form much better;
  • The primer will be an indispensable thing for everyone who has oily skin of the eyelids, in principle, any of its textures will help to cope with this problem;
  • Protecting the skin from low-quality shadows, because they may contain harmful components, but you should worry about purchasing a good base for the eyelids.


If you have never tried it, then be sure to purchase this tool, because difference with and without him is very tangible. Just try to choose softer consistencies that spread easily over the skin, for example, the texture of the primer from Vivenne Sabo is very thick, rolls down on the eyelids, and stretches the skin when applied.

How to apply a foundation for shadows correctly?

Now I will try to list the fundamental principles when using an eyelid primer that will allow you not to be disappointed in the purchase of this product:

  1. Washing - the skin of the eyelids should be clean;
  2. Applying a moisturizer for the eyes, just give it time to absorb, the interval depends on the consistency of the product;
  3. You can lightly apply a napkin to the eyelids so that there is no excess cream;
  4. Depending on what texture the product has, it is easier and most convenient to apply it with your fingers, if there is a special spatula, it is better to use it, and then patting the product over the skin;
  5. If the base is in a tube resembling a lip gloss, then it is enough to apply just a few drops on the eyelid and easily drive the product into the skin with your fingers;
  6. You can apply the base both on the upper eyelid and on the lower one, but the second option is practiced less often;
  7. Usually, the eyelid base dries very quickly, so you can immediately apply absolutely any shadow, eyeliner, pencil;
  8. In the evening, the eyeshadow along with the primer can be easily washed off with any cleanser, such as milk.

That's basically it. Take some of your time and enjoy beautiful eye makeup all day long.


What if there is no eyelid base?

Obtain it, of course. But seriously, some girls do this:

  • Powder skin of the eyelids. This method takes place, since the eyelids really dry out, but if you do this constantly, you can quickly become the owner of wrinkles in this area.
  • Apply shadows wet applicator. This method helps to increase the brightness of the shadows, but it is unlikely to prevent them from rolling. Suitable for dry eyelid skin.
  • Use shadows over the top. Not a bad option, but it can again dry out the thin sensitive skin of the eyelids or, on the contrary, excessively moisturize, which will lead to the hated streak of shadows in the crease of the eyelid. But this method is practiced, so it is worth trying.
  • Use white pencil... The color of the eyeshadows becomes much more intense, but the durability does not increase.
  • Apply to eyelids lip balm... Crazy way, really. I don't know what texture this product should have, basically they are all sticky, at least for me. Therefore, the skin of the eyelids can become even more oily.

You can try replacing the product with one of the proposed options, but the easiest way is to buy this product once and use it for a very long time, since it is quite economical... For six months, daily use is more than enough for you.

That's all for me. Feel free to try a new remedy. Look for good quality makeup. Trust proven brands, read reviews. I recently used a base from Mary Kay, I will say that its firmness leaves much to be desired, at least for oily skin this base is rather weak.


As soon as it ended, I acquired Korean primer from Tony moly, while everything suits me, the main thing is mattifying well, does not dry, slightly brightens the eyelids. Koreans know a lot about good cosmetics. There is also a good base from Avon, while I was their distributor, I mainly used it.

Perfect eye makeup for you! See you!

The most expensive does not always mean the best. That is why we have collected 10 shade bases from a variety of brands - from luxury to democratic. Choose what is right for you! And remember that the base is applied on the eyelids in a thin layer before proceeding with the eye makeup. Let it dry for a couple of minutes and you can start using shadows.

YSL Couture Eye Primer Base

This base has a pleasant creamy texture and perfectly fixes the eyeshadow all day long. We like that the product comes in two types - matte and gloss, for matte and satin eyeshadows, respectively.

Make Up For Ever Aqua Seal Eyeshadow Base

This product has a liquid consistency and is not at all like the usual products. Aqua Seal drops should be mixed with dry eyeshadow and only then applied to the eyelids with a brush. The result will pleasantly surprise you - the makeup really sticks on like it is glued on!

M.A.C's 24-Hour Extend Eye Base

We really don’t think you’ll need a makeup that lasts for 24 hours, but this M.A.C eye primer really does last that long. We liked that the product is very economical - a tiny droplet is enough to fill the entire movable eyelid.

Eyeshadow Primer Potion by Urban Decay

Urban Decay Primer is suitable for even the thickest textures - they won't appear under the eyes! It is also good because it looks great without shadows - the primer evens out the skin color, so after applying it, you can simply tint your eyelashes - and that's it!

Eclat Minute by Clarins

This foundation is ideal for those who care not only about makeup, but also about the care of the skin of the eyelids. The base is light, applied in a very thin layer, perfectly moisturizes the eyelids and, of course, performs its main function - it helps the shadows not to roll and stay longer.

Long-Wear Eye Base by Bobbi Brown

Dedicated to lovers of natural makeup! The lightweight, lightweight base from Bobbi Brown is available in two shades for the most natural makeup. But most importantly, this primer does not dry out the skin and works as a moisturizer for the eyes, so you don't have to worry about premature wrinkles.

Primer Smashbox Photo Finish Lid Primer

This primer perfectly evens out the skin of the eyelids and has a very valuable effect - it masks and smoothes fine wrinkles, as it contains anti-aging ingredients. The texture of the product is velvety and light, suitable for all shadows. This is a godsend!

Hypnôse Base 10 Years Ombre Hypnôse by Lancôme

The classic Lancôme base comes in a small round box and is ideal for nude makeup. You can replace beige shadows with this primer (it will mask all imperfections, blue and yellowness) or apply it under very bright shadows - the primer is also ideal for this purpose.

Dior Backstage Eye Prime Base

Although this base belongs to professional cosmetics (makeup artists love to use it for filming), it will take its rightful place in your beauty wardrobe. The shadows hold on as if they were glued! If you need long-term durability and freshness, this primer is just what you need.

The main advantage of the Mary Kay® eyeshadow foundation is that it is waterproof, which means that in any weather, from cold to hot, you will not have to worry about your makeup. By the way, the tool also transforms the colors of the shadows - they become saturated and bright. The composition contains glycerin, which is responsible for moisturizing the skin, beeswax, which makes it soft, sesame oil, which restores the protective functions of the epidermis, and hydrolyzed wheat protein. The product is suitable for all skin types, approved by ophthalmologists and dermatologists, and can be used by both contact lens wearers and people with sensitive eyes.

Base under the shadow Majestic Collection Perfecta Eyelids Primer, Nouba (1080 RUB.)

The base under the eyeshadow Majestic Collection Perfecta Eyelids Primer, Nouba, is one of the few that is presented in a compact powder format, and even equipped with a handy mini-mirror. This eye primer has a delicate, creamy texture. It not only prevents the shadows from rolling and significantly increases the durability of the product, but also visually hides fine wrinkles and skin imperfections.

Primer for eyes Eyeshadow Primer, Urban Decay (1490 rubles)

Eyeshadow Primer is a true bestseller from Urban Decay. Thanks to him, the shadows do not roll or fade for a record 24 hours, and this is not the limit. Moreover, any shadows with it become much richer in color and reveal the beauty of their shades in full. Eyeshadow Primer is indispensable for hot summer and will be a real salvation for oily skin. It does not dry out the eyelids and does not leave unpleasant sensations. The base is presented in 3 versions: Original, the color of which becomes invisible after drying, as well as Eden and Sin, which can be used instead of eyeshadow or as a highlighter.

Base for makeup eyelids Beauty Base Eyeshadow Primer, Lumene (577 rubles)

Lumene has recently completely revamped its makeup base, including the Beauty Base Eyeshadow Primer. If you have ever used this tool before and were satisfied, then we dare to assure you that the base has retained all its excellent properties. It perfectly holds the eyeshadow on the eyelids, enhances their color and prevents them from sliding. One difference is that the composition contains arctic lingonberry seed oil, which promises to have an antioxidant effect. The result is a high-quality makeup base at an affordable price.

Base under eyeshadow Base Eyeshadow, Artdeco (449 rubles)

Eyeshadow Base, Artdeco, nude with a discreet shimmer. It spreads well (can be applied with fingers or a brush) and is very economical. A 5 ml jar will last for a long time. The main active ingredient of the product is bisabolol, which soothes irritated eyelids. The formula also contains vitamin E, which nourishes and protects the delicate skin around the eyes. The base has an interesting difference from all the others: it has a pleasant fresh scent, which will be appreciated by lovers of sea and woody scents.

Base, giving radiance to the skin, Eclat Minute, Clarins (2110 RUB.)

This foundation is ideal for those who care not only about makeup, but also about the care of the skin of the eyelids. Thanks to the extract of cataphray bark, it moisturizes and soothes the skin. And, of course, it fulfills its main function - it helps the shadows not to roll and stay longer. There are 3 shades in the palette: 01 rose (for skin of any shade), 02 champagne (for light skin prone to redness) and 03 peach (for medium to dark skin).

Primer Photo Finish Lid Primer, Smashbox (1190 rubles)

Primer Photo Finish Lid Primer, Smashbox, will appeal to those girls who like means of dense texture. The product is beige in color, creamy and applied with an applicator. It is thanks to the universal shade that it can also be used as a concealer under the eyes - it will mask bruises reliably. Photo Finish Lid Primer perfectly evens the skin of the eyelids and smoothes fine wrinkles, as it contains anti-aging ingredients.

Primer Prep + Prime 24-Hour Extend Eye Base, M.A.C (1740 rubles)

Prep + Prime 24-Hour Extend Eye Base, M.A.C, is another base in our ranking that promises to extend the longevity of eye makeup up to 24 hours. The texture is lightweight and comfortable, rich in antioxidants, perfect for all skin types and tones. By the way, this tool was also appreciated by the famous makeup artist Elena Krygina, who, in her fifth video lesson, spoke in detail about all its benefits.

Do you want your makeup to look as good as in a photo in a magazine? Look urgently at primers for the eyes, lips and face.

1. What is a primer and why is it needed?

A primer is a base, or makeup base. It is applied over the care cream, before decorative cosmetics. Partially hides imperfections such as pimples, blood vessels and pigmentation, and most importantly - evens out the skin's relief, smoothes wrinkles, and ensures makeup durability.

Radiance Primers: Illuminating Highlight Pen, Tom Ford; Natural Radiance Base Visage, M.A.C; Meteorites and L "Or, all Guerlain; Perfect Glow Primer, Thalgo. Healthy Look Shining Powder, Catrice.

2. What types of primers are there?

“Primers for the face, eyelids and lips are distinguished by the area of ​​application,” says Veronika Leshenko, official makeup artist for Urban Decay in Russia. - And the function of the species is a little more: matting for oily skin, moisturizing for dehydrated skin, giving radiance for dull skin. A primer that creates a blur effect is suitable for aging or porous skin. There are also base color correctors. Depending on the type of skin, all this can be mixed by applying different products to different parts of the face. "

3. How to choose a primer?

“We'll have to take into account different parameters: skin type (normal, oily, combined), its condition (dehydrated or moist), individual characteristics (redness, pigmentation, rosacea, acne). The texture of the primer is also important - gel, oil, ultra-light water, ”says Lilia Svetlova, lead makeup artist at Smashbox.

Lip primers: Zero Defaute, Yves Rocher; Prep + Prime, M.A.C; balm primer, Make Up For Ever; Real Lip Lift, Makeup Factory. Lipstick: Vicelipstick, Cream Shame, Urban Decay; Rouge Dior, 775 Darling, Dior.

4. Should a primer take care of the skin?

Modern cosmetics are multifunctional, so why shouldn't primers perform several actions at the same time? They do this: they moisturize and nourish the skin, protect it from UV rays and negative environmental factors, and fight against age-related changes. Therefore, most often in the composition of primers are:

  • Silicone: Evens out the facial contours.
  • Caffeine: Eliminates redness and puffiness.
  • Microparticles of pearls: give the skin a radiance.
  • Hyaluronic acid: moisturizes, smoothes fine wrinkles.
  • Vitamins C and E: act as antioxidants.
  • UV filters: protect the skin from photoaging.

Eyelid primers: Color Tattoo, Maybelline; Eyeshadow Primer Potion, Urban Decay; Eye Base Prime to Fix, by Terry; La Base Pauper, 02, Lancome; 24 Hour Photo Finish Shadow Primer, Smashbox. Eyeshadow palette Palette 4 Couleurs, Clarins.

5. Application of primer-obligatory makeup stage?

“Not required. But if you want to reduce the visibility of pores and wrinkles, and make your complexion perfect and keep your makeup all day long, prepare your skin in three stages: primer, foundation and concealer, light powder, ”advises Lilia Svetlova.

It all depends on your needs, as well as on the season, Katerina Ponomareva, the leading makeup artist at M.A.C in Russia, is sure: “Use a base for lips or eyes when you need a particularly long-lasting make-up. A face primer is more likely to come in handy in the cold season, when the skin requires additional moisture. " and vice versa?

“It is not in vain that the area of ​​the face for which the primer is intended is indicated on the packaging,” says Katerina Ponomareva. - For example, the base for lipstick contains paraffin, which fills in irregularities on the lips and hardens after application. Under the shadow, such a base is not needed, because the skin of the eyelids is quite sensitive. On the skin of the face, this texture will also seem heavy, moreover, it will clog into the pores and cause discomfort.

The base under the shadow has a thick creamy texture, which requires application with a special brush, "sticks" to itself the next layer of cosmetics and fixes it on the eyelid. Not recommended for use on the entire face. "

Why do you need a face primer? Let's first figure out what it is. Primer for eyes and face- decorative cosmetic, i.e. foundation or base for eyeshadow or pencil (liner). The main property of the primer is to even out one skin tone, preventing color imperfections, which are considered a barrier between cosmetics and skin color. Provides long-lasting eye makeup. After all, it is the durability of makeup that depends on high-quality cosmetic products, as well as on a properly selected base.

Today there are a number of options for the best primers for the eyes:
- colored primers (lighten the eyelid and give it a shine, laying down in a thin layer);
- colorless primers (typical cream that does not impart shine and color);
- primers with a neutral shade (light concealer, individually adjusted to the skin tone).

The base under the eyeshadow makes it easier to apply eyeshadow, eyeliner, pencil. Suitable for long-lasting make-up, it stays in perfect condition all day long. The texture is the best, i.e. high-quality, lightweight and velvety eyelid primer.

Of course you decide whether you need a primer for your face, the most important thing is not to harm.

The cosmetic product acts in liquid and creamy form. Thanks to this miracle remedy, imperfections are hidden, which even the tonal base cannot mask. The advantage of this type of cosmetics: hide acne, redness, bruises, yellowness, hide oily sheen and even wrinkles, smoothing and giving a perfect skin tone. With its consistency, the base fills in irregularities on the face. In practice, the skin under the primer looks healthier and there is a clear improvement in color.
When using a primer, be sure to moisturize the skin first.

Then a primer is applied. After shading it, you must wait until it is completely dry and apply shadows, pencil or eyeliner (if necessary).

The base under the eyeshadow belongs to the types of professional cosmetics. In a woman's beauty wardrobe, a primer will take its rightful place. The shadows are held as if glued, which is important in the individuality of the female to maintain the make-up for a long amount of time. It is these reviews about the eyelid primer that can be read on women's websites.
Fans of not only natural makeup, but also lovers of applying for shadows with a dense and bright texture leave only positive reviews about the bases under the shadows. The primer does not dry out the skin, so you should not be afraid of the appearance of early wrinkles.

Here are some from our girls. Some describe their own from the use of this cosmetics.

And here is a short video on the topic)

The best and most effective face care products